Barry Can’t Swim Channels French Touch on Uplifting New Single ‘Dance Dance Dance

Text

A New Single, A New Era

Barry Can’t Swim, the Edinburgh-born producer and DJ known for his eclectic electronic sound, released “Dance Dance Dance” on July 24, his second collaboration with Atlantic Records this year. The track, described as a “euphoric” exploration of French touch, features shimmering synths, buoyant electronic beats, and playful keytar solos alongside French-language vocals. The release follows his May single “Return To Bhibo,” which highlighted his club-focused, emotionally charged production style.

Text

Echoes of the French Touch

Inspired by the golden era of French touch, “Dance Dance Dance” represents a shift for Joshua Mainnie—Barry Can’t Swim’s real name—toward a more flamboyant and colorful aesthetic.

Text

Cultural Crossings and High-Profile Appearances

The single arrives amid a busy period for Mainnie, who has been actively engaging with the U.S. music scene. In recent months, he walked in KidSuper’s SS27 runway show in Miami and hosted a surprise pop-up party in Brooklyn. He also carried the official match ball onto the pitch ahead of Scotland’s World Cup game against Brazil in Miami, alongside Brazilian DJ Mochakk. The pair later performed a back-to-back set at Club Space in the city, underscoring his growing presence in American electronic music circles.

The album, which followed his Mercury Prize-nominated debut When Will We Land? (2023), featured singles like “Still Riding” and “The Person You’d Like To Be.” In a statement at the time, Mainnie described Loner as “the most authentic expression I could offer of myself and my life over the past year,” contrasting it with his debut, which he called a “collage of all the music I loved and was inspired by growing up.”

Text

Curating the Nocturnal Soundscape

The new single also ties into Mainnie’s ongoing role as curator of the Late Night Tales compilation series. His contribution, released in March as part of the series’ 25th-anniversary celebrations, included tracks from artists like O’Flynn, Factory Floor, and Daniel Avery, alongside his own material.

Text

Beyond Music: A Multifaceted Presence

The release of “Dance Dance Dance” follows a period of increased visibility for Mainnie, who has expanded his presence beyond music production. His participation in fashion events, such as the KidSuper runway show, and his high-profile World Cup appearance highlight his growing influence as a cultural figure.